Sulfur is found in abundance in the human body. It is a part of proteins, vitamins, and other elements in the body and aids several bodily functions. Keratin, the key protein and the building block of hair, contains sulfur in the form of cysteine.
It helps in nourishing and strengthening the hair roots and aids hair growth. Read on to understand sulfur uses and benefits for hair growth and how to incorporate it into your diet.
Sulfur Benefits for Hair
The sulfur benefits for healthy hair growth are numerous. It is a part of essential proteins and amino acids that benefit hair growth and offers the following benefits to hair health.
1. Minimises Inflammation
Scalp inflammation can impact hair growth greatly. Sulfur has the potential to mitigate scalp inflammation and create a conducive environment for hair growth. It was also observed that using hair products containing sulfur can reduce dandruff and maintain scalp health to facilitate hair growth.
2. Has Antibacterial Properties
The antibacterial properties of sulfur protect the scalp against infections. This helps maintain robust scalp health and promotes hair growth.
3. Enhances the Growth Phase
Sulfur for hair aids in enhancing the anagen or growth phase of the hair cycle. This ensures robust hair growth.
4. Strengthens Hair Cuticle
Cystine, a crucial amino acid found in hair, contains sulfur. Cystine is a component of both the cuticle and cortex of the hair. It is also the structural component of keratin. This amino acid toughens and makes the hair cuticle resistant. The cuticle protects the inner layer of each hair and makes each strand strong.
How to Use Sulfur for Hair?
There are various ways of using sulfur for hair health.
1. Include Sulfur-Rich Foods
Studies have shown that proteins contain sulfur amino acids. Including protein-rich foods in your diet will help procure the required sulfur for healthy hair. Include the following foods and gain sulfur benefits.
- Grass-fed beef and poultry of premium quality
- Eggs
- Fish
- Asparagus
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Garlic
- Onion
- Wheat germ
2. Use MSM Supplements
If you are unable to derive sulfur from your diet you can consider using MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane supplements. They provide the benefits of sulfur for hair and are easily available over the counter. However, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist before incorporating the supplement into your daily routine to avoid any side effects.
3. Use Sulfur-Infused Oil
You can use sulfur-infused oil and gain the benefit of sulfur for hair growth. The recipe to prepare sulfur oil at home is given below
Ingredients
- Sublimed sulfur powder- 1 teaspoon
- Jojoba Oil- 4oz
- Jamaican Black Castor Oil-2 oz
- Extra virgin olive oil-2 oz
- Rosemary essential oil- 4 to 5 drops
- Peppermint essential oil- 4 to 5 drops
Mix all the ingredients in an applicator bottle. Apply the oil to your scalp. Concentrate on the hair roots and follicles rather than the hair length. Gently massage the oil into your scalp. Allow it to sit for a minimum of 30 minutes. For better results, leave it on overnight.
Conclusion
Proteins, vitamins and other elements in the body contain sulfur which is essential for bodily functions including hair health. Avail the benefits of sulfur by consuming sulfur-rich foods or using MSM supplements in consultation with a doctor, or using sulfur-infused products after doing a patch test to avoid potential side effects.
